Vehicle Bed Rack System

ABSTRACT

A rack system has: a first anchor to connect to a first side wall of a bed of a vehicle; a second anchor to connect to a second side wall of the bed; a first angle adjuster rotatably connected to the first anchor and having a first locking mechanism to lock at a first angle and a second angle; a second angle adjuster rotatably connected to the second anchor and having a second locking mechanism to lock at the first angle and the second angle; a first support member connected to the first angle adjuster; a second support member connected to the second angle adjuster; and a cross-member connected between the first support member and the second support member. The angle adjusters each have an inner tube and an outer tube.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/231,472, filed Dec. 22, 2018, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Application No. 62/614,401, filed Jan. 6, 2018, which areboth hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

Many existing rack systems for pickup trucks may not adjust to multipleheight configurations. Many existing rack systems for pickup trucks maynot adjust to a height configuration that is taller than the cab of thepickup truck to secure loads longer than the bed of the pickup truck.Many existing rack systems for pickup trucks may not adjust to a heightconfiguration that is lower than the top of the cab to allow forimproved handling of the vehicle at highway speeds for loads that areshorter than the bed. Many existing rack systems for pickup trucks maynot adjust to a height configuration that is lower than the top of thecab to allow for increased fuel efficiency for loads that are shorterthan the bed. Many existing rack systems for pickup trucks may notadjust to a height configuration that is below the bed side wall heightto allow for employment of, for example, a tonneau cover over the bed orportions thereof. Many existing rack systems for pickup trucks may notadjust to a height configuration that is below the bed side wall heightto deter theft. Many existing rack systems may restrict the amountand/or size of items that may be stored on the bed floor underneath therack systems. Many existing rack systems may be available in fixedwidths only and may not adapt to a plurality of bed widths. Manyexisting rack systems may not be compatible with bed widths of certainpickup truck models or model years. Many existing rack systems may notbe adaptable to changes in bed width when users of the rack systems movefrom a first pickup truck to a second pickup truck. What is needed is animproved pickup truck rack system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates an example rack system as per an aspect of variousembodiments.

FIG. 2 illustrates an example pair of rack systems as per an aspect ofan embodiment.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example pair of rack systems as per an aspect ofvarious embodiments.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example pair of rack systems as per an aspect ofvarious embodiments.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example pair of rack systems as per an aspect ofvarious embodiments.

FIG. 6 illustrates an example pair of rack systems as per an aspect ofvarious embodiments.

FIG. 7 illustrates an example pair of rack systems as per an aspect ofvarious embodiments.

FIG. 8 illustrates an example pair of rack systems as per an aspect ofvarious embodiments.

FIG. 9 illustrates an example pair of rack systems as per an aspect ofvarious embodiments.

FIG. 10 illustrates an example pair of rack systems as per an aspect ofvarious embodiments.

FIG. 11 illustrates an example pair of rack systems as per an aspect ofvarious embodiments.

FIG. 12 illustrates an example pair of rack systems as per an aspect ofvarious embodiments.

FIG. 13 illustrates an example pair of rack systems as per an aspect ofvarious embodiments.

FIG. 14 illustrates an example pair of rack systems as per an aspect ofvarious embodiments.

FIG. 15A illustrates an example anchor and angle adjuster assembly asper an aspect of various embodiments.

FIG. 15B illustrates an example anchor and angle adjuster assembly asper an aspect of various embodiments.

FIG. 16A illustrates an example anchor and angle adjuster assembly asper an aspect of various embodiments.

FIG. 16B illustrates cross-sectional views of an example anchor andangle adjuster assembly as per an aspect of various embodiments.

FIG. 17A illustrates an example anchor and angle adjuster assembly asper an aspect of various embodiments.

FIG. 17B illustrates an example anchor and angle adjuster assembly asper an aspect of various embodiments.

FIG. 18A illustrates an example anchor and angle adjuster assembly asper an aspect of various embodiments.

FIG. 18B illustrates an example anchor and angle adjuster assembly asper an aspect of various embodiments.

FIG. 19A illustrates an example anchor as per an aspect of anembodiment.

FIG. 19B illustrates a cross-sectional view of an interior lip of a sidewall of a pickup-truck with an example anchor and angle adjusterassembly as per an aspect of an embodiment.

FIG. 20 illustrates an example cross-member clamp as per an aspect ofvarious embodiments.

FIGS. 21A and 21B illustrate existing clamps known in the art that maybe employed to clamp to a cross-member to secure a load.

FIGS. 22A and 22B illustrate existing clamps known in the art that maybe employed to clamp to a cross-member to secure a load.

FIG. 23A illustrates a portion of an example rack system with an exampleclamp as per an aspect of various embodiments.

FIG. 23B illustrates a portion of an example rack system with an exampleclamp as per an aspect of various embodiments.

FIG. 24 illustrates a portion of an example rack system at a first angleas per an aspect of an embodiment.

FIG. 25 illustrates a portion of an example rack system at a first angleas per an aspect of an embodiment.

FIG. 26 illustrates a portion of an example rack system at a third angleas per an aspect of an embodiment.

FIG. 27 illustrates a portion of an example rack system at a third angleas per an aspect of an embodiment.

FIG. 28 illustrates a portion of an example rack system at a secondangle as per an aspect of an embodiment.

FIG. 29 illustrates a portion of an example rack system at a secondangle as per an aspect of an embodiment.

FIG. 30 illustrates a portion of an example rack system at a fourthangle as per an aspect of an embodiment.

FIG. 31 illustrates a portion of an example rack system at a fourthangle as per an aspect of an embodiment.

FIG. 32 illustrates an example pair of rack systems at a fifth angle asper an aspect of an embodiment.

FIG. 33 illustrates an example rack system with a cross-member adjustedto a first length as per an aspect of an embodiment.

FIG. 34 illustrates an example rack system with a cross-member adjustedto a second length as per an aspect of an embodiment.

FIG. 35 illustrates an example rack system with a cross-member adjustedto a third length as per an aspect of an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments include one or more rack systems. The rack systems may beemployed with a vehicle such as, for example, a pickup-truck.

According to an embodiment, a rack system may comprise a first anchor.The first anchor may be structurally configured to connect to a firstside wall of a bed. The bed may be part of a vehicle. The first anchormay be structurally configured to connect to the first side wall at aposition that is below a top of the first side wall. The first anchormay be structurally configured to connect to the first side wall at aposition that is above a floor of the bed. The rack system may comprisea second anchor. The second anchor may be structurally configured toconnect to a second side wall of the bed. The second anchor may bestructurally configured to connect to the second side wall at a positionthat is below a top of the second side wall. The second anchor may bestructurally configured to connect to the second side wall at a positionthat is above the floor. The rack system may comprise a first angleadjuster. The first angle adjuster may be rotatably connected to thefirst anchor. The first angle adjuster may comprise a first lockingmechanism. The first locking mechanism may be structurally configured tolock at a first angle. The first angle may, for example, be relative toa vertical position. The first locking mechanism may be structurallyconfigured to lock at a second angle. The second angle may, for example,be relative to a vertical position. The rack system may comprise asecond angle adjuster. The second angle adjuster may be rotatablyconnected to the second anchor. The second angle adjuster may comprise asecond locking mechanism. The second locking mechanism may bestructurally configured to lock at the first angle. The second lockingmechanism may be structurally configured to lock at the second angle.

According to an embodiment, a rack system may comprise a first supportmember. The first support member may be connected to a first angleadjuster. The rack system may comprise a second support member. Thesecond support member may be connected to a second angle adjuster. Therack system may comprise a cross-member. The cross-member may beconnected between the first support member and the second supportmember.

According to an embodiment, a first angle may position a cross-memberhigher than a cab height of a vehicle. A second angle may position thecross-member lower than the top of a first side wall and lower than thetop of a second side wall. A first locking mechanism and a secondlocking mechanism may each be structurally configured to lock at a thirdangle. The third angle may, for example, be relative to a verticalposition. The third angle may position the cross-member lower than thecab height of the vehicle, and higher than the top of the first sidewall and the top of the second side wall. The first locking mechanismand the second locking mechanism may each be structurally configured tolock at a fourth angle. The forth angle may, for example, be relative toa vertical position. The fourth angle may position the cross-memberlower than a top of a first wheel well and lower than a top of a secondwheel well. The first locking mechanism and the second locking mechanismmay each be structurally configured to lock at a fifth angle. The fifthangle may, for example, be relative to a vertical position. The fifthangle may position the cross-member in contact with a floor of a bed.The first locking mechanism and the second locking mechanism may each bestructurally configured to lock at additional angles for additionalcross-member positions.

According to an embodiment, a first support member may comprise a firsthorizontal extension. A second support member may comprise a secondhorizontal extension. The first horizontal extension may be configuredto slide into the second horizontal extension. The first horizontalextension and/or the second horizontal extension may be employed as across-member.

According to an embodiment, a first support member may comprise a firsthorizontal extension. A second support member may comprise a secondhorizontal extension. A third member may be configured to slide insideboth the first horizontal extension and the second horizontal extension.The first horizontal extension, the second horizontal extension, thethird member, or combinations thereof, may be employed as across-member.

According to an embodiment, a cross-member, a first support member, anda second support member may collectively comprise at least one bearingsupport member. Each of the at least one bearing support member may bestructurally configured to support an inner race of at least onebearing. The cross-member, first support member, and second supportmember may collectively comprise at least one inner tube. Each of the atleast one inner tube may comprise a first outer surface. Each of the atleast one inner tube may comprise a first inner surface. The first innersurface may be structurally configured to be at least partiallysupported by an outer race of the at least one bearing. Thecross-member, first support member, and second support member maycollectively comprise at least one outer tube. Each of the at least oneouter tube may comprise a second outer surface. Each of the at least oneouter tube may comprise a second inner surface. The second inner surfacemay be structurally configured to be at least partially supported by thefirst outer surface of the at least one inner tube. The cross-member maybe structurally configured to rotate with respect to the first supportmember and the second support member. The cross-member may bestructurally configured to be fixed to the first support member and/orthe second support member. The cross-member may be structurallyconfigured to adjust to a plurality of lengths. A rack system comprisingthe cross-member may therefore be structurally configured to adjust to aplurality of lengths, to accommodate such as, for example, the width ofa pickup truck bed. The first support member and the second supportmember may each be structurally configured to adjust to a plurality oflengths.

FIG. 1 illustrates an example rack system 100, mounted to a pickuptruck, as per an aspect of various embodiments. The rack system maycomprise a first anchor and adjuster assembly 120. The first anchor andadjuster assembly 120 may comprise a first anchor and a first angleadjuster. The first anchor may be structurally configured to connect toa first side wall 190. The rack system may comprise a second anchor andadjuster assembly 121. The second anchor and adjuster assembly 121 maycomprise a second anchor and a second angle adjuster. The second anchormay be structurally configured to connect to a second side wall 191. Therack system may comprise a first support member 130. The rack system maycomprise a second support member 131. The rack system may comprise across-member. The cross-member may comprise a first tube 140A, a secondtube 140B, and a third tube 140C. In this example, the third tube 140Ccomprises an inner tube. The third tube 140C may be fixed in relation tothe first support member 130 and the second support member 131. Thefirst tube 140A and the second tube 140B may each comprise an outertube. The first tube 140A and the second tube 140B may each bestructurally configured to rotate with respect to the third tube 140C,the first support member 130, and the second support member 131. Inanother example, the third tube 140C may comprise an outer tube. Thethird tube 140C may be structurally configured to rotate with respect tothe first tube 140A, the second tube 140B, the first support member 130,and the second support member 131. The first tube 140A and the secondtube 140B may each comprise an inner tube. The first tube 140A may befixed in relation to the first support member 130. The second tube 140Bmay be fixed in relation to the second support member 131.

FIG. 2 illustrates an example pair of rack systems 200, mounted to apickup truck, as per an aspect of an embodiment. A first rack system inthe pair of rack systems may comprise a first support member 230 and asecond support member 231. The first rack system may comprise a firstcross-member 240. A second rack system in the pair of rack systems maycomprise a third support member 232 and a forth support member 233. Thesecond rack system may comprise a second cross-member 242.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example pair of rack systems 300, mounted to apickup truck, as per an aspect of various embodiments. A first racksystem in the pair of rack systems may comprise a first support member330 and a second support member 331. The first rack system may comprisea first cross-member 340. A second rack system in the pair of racksystems may comprise a third support member 332 and a forth supportmember 333. The second rack system may comprise a second cross-member342. The first rack system and the second rack system may bestructurally configured to secure, for example, at least one bicycle(380 and 381). The first rack system and the second rack system may eachbe structurally configured to secure, for example, a wheel of at leastone bicycle. The first rack system and the second rack system may bestructurally configured to adapt the height of the first cross-member340 and the second cross-member 342 to secure, for example, a variety ofbicycle sizes, bicycle shapes, and/or bicycle wheel sizes. The firstrack system and the second rack system may be structurally configured toadapt the position of the first cross-member 340 and the secondcross-member 342 to secure, for example, at least one bicycle (380 and381) in a plurality of positions relative to a bed of the pickup truck.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example pair of rack systems 400, mounted to apickup truck, as per an aspect of various embodiments. The pair of racksystems may comprise a first rack system 401 and a second rack system402. The first rack system 401 may comprise a first angle adjuster and asecond angle adjuster. The first angle adjuster and the second angleadjuster may each be configured to lock at a first angle. The secondrack system 402 may comprise a third angle adjuster and a fourth angleadjuster. The third angle adjuster and the fourth angle adjuster mayeach be configured to lock at the first angle. The first angle mayposition a cross-member of the first rack system 401 and a cross-memberof the second rack system 402 higher than a cab of the pickup truck. Thefirst rack system 401 and the second rack system 402 may be configuredto support a load that is longer than the length of a bed of the pickuptruck. The first rack system 401 and the second rack system 402 may beconfigured to secure, for example, at least one long board and/orstandup paddle board (480 and 481).

FIG. 5 illustrates an example pair of rack systems 500, mounted to apickup truck, as per an aspect of various embodiments. The pair of racksystems may comprise a first rack system 501 and a second rack system502. The first rack system 501 may comprise a first angle adjuster and asecond angle adjuster. The first angle adjuster and the second angleadjuster may each be configured to lock at a second angle. The secondrack system 502 may comprise a third angle adjuster and a fourth angleadjuster. The third angle adjuster and the fourth angle adjuster mayeach be configured to lock at the second angle. The second angle mayposition a cross-member of the first rack system 501 and a cross-memberof the second rack system 502 lower than a first side wall and lowerthan a second side wall of a bed of the pickup truck. The first racksystem 501 and the second rack system 502 may be configured to support aload that is shorter than the length of the bed. The first rack system501 and the second rack system 502 may be configured to secure, forexample, at least one bicycle (580 and 581).

According to an embodiment, a cross-member, a first support member, anda second support member may collectively comprise at least one rackaccessory attachment feature. Rack accessories may be configured tosecure a load. Examples of a load include but are not limited tobicycles, bicycle wheels, surf boards, paddle boards, canoes, kayaks,water skis, wake boards, snow skis, snow boards, lumber, ladders, sparetires, cargo baskets, vehicle recovery gear, combinations thereof,and/or the like. Rack accessories may comprise straps, tie downs,clamps, cradles, trays, combinations thereof, and/or the like. Examplesof attachment features include but are not limited to holes, detents,grooves, and T-slots.

FIG. 6 illustrates an example pair of rack systems 600, mounted to apickup truck, as per an aspect of various embodiments. The pair of racksystems may comprise a first rack system 601 and a second rack system602. The first rack system 601 may comprise a first angle adjuster and asecond angle adjuster. The first angle adjuster and the second angleadjuster may each be configured to lock at a second angle. The secondrack system 602 may comprise a third angle adjuster and a fourth angleadjuster. The third angle adjuster and the fourth angle adjuster mayeach be configured to lock at the second angle. The second angle mayposition a cross-member of the first rack system 601 and a cross-memberof the second rack system 602 lower than a first side wall and lowerthan a second side wall of a bed of the pickup truck. The first racksystem 601 and the second rack system 602 may be configured to support aload that is shorter than the length of the bed. The first rack system601 and the second rack system 602 may be configured to secure, forexample, at least one kayak (680 and 681). The first rack system 601 andthe second rack system 602 may be configured to accept at least one rackaccessory (670, 671, 672, and 673). The at least one rack accessory(670, 671, 672, and 673) may comprise at least one cradle configured tosecure the at least one kayak (680 and 681).

FIG. 7 illustrates an example pair of rack systems 700, mounted to apickup truck, as per an aspect of various embodiments. The pair of racksystems may comprise a first rack system 701 and a second rack system702. The first rack system 701 may comprise a first angle adjuster and asecond angle adjuster. The first angle adjuster and the second angleadjuster may each be configured to lock at a second angle. The secondrack system 702 may comprise a third angle adjuster and a fourth angleadjuster. The third angle adjuster and the fourth angle adjuster mayeach be configured to lock at the second angle. The second angle mayposition a cross-member of the first rack system 701 and a cross-memberof the second rack system 702 lower than a first side wall and lowerthan a second side wall of a bed of the pickup truck. The first racksystem 701 and the second rack system 702 may be configured to support aload that is shorter than the length of the bed. The first rack system701 and the second rack system 702 may be configured to secure, forexample, at least one pair of snow skis and/or at least one snow board(780 and 781). The first rack system 701 and the second rack system 702may be configured to accept at least one rack accessory (770, 771, 772,and 773). The at least one rack accessory (770, 771, 772, and 773) maycomprise at least one clamp configured to secure the at least one snowboard (780 and 781).

FIG. 8 illustrates an example pair of rack systems 800, mounted to apickup truck, as per an aspect of various embodiments. The pair of racksystems may comprise a first rack system 801 and a second rack system802. The first rack system 801 may comprise a first anchor and adjusterassembly 820 and a second anchor and adjuster assembly (not shown). Thefirst anchor and adjuster assembly 820 may comprise a first anchor and afirst angle adjuster. The first anchor may be structurally configured toconnect to a first side wall 890. The second anchor and adjusterassembly may comprise a second anchor and a second angle adjuster. Thefirst angle adjuster and the second angle adjuster may each beconfigured to lock at a first angle. The second rack system 802 maycomprise a third anchor and adjuster assembly 822 and a fourth anchorand adjuster assembly (not shown). The third anchor and adjusterassembly 822 may comprise a third anchor and a third angle adjuster. Thethird anchor may be structurally configured to connect to the first sidewall 890. The fourth anchor and adjuster assembly may comprise a fourthanchor and a fourth angle adjuster. The third angle adjuster and thefourth angle adjuster may each be configured to lock at the first angle.The first angle may position a cross-member of the first rack system 801and a cross-member of the second rack system 802 higher than a cab ofthe pickup truck. The first rack system 801 and the second rack system802 may be configured to support a load that is longer than the lengthof a bed of the pickup truck. The first rack system 801 and the secondrack system 802 may be configured to secure, for example, at least onesit-on-top kayak 880. The first rack system 801 and the second racksystem 802 may be configured to accept at least one rack accessory (870and 872). The at least one rack accessory (870 and 872) may comprise atleast one cradle configured to secure the at least one sit-on-top kayak880.

FIG. 9 illustrates an example pair of rack systems 900, mounted to apickup truck, as per an aspect of various embodiments. The pair of racksystems may comprise a first rack system 901 and a second rack system902. The first rack system 901 may comprise a first anchor and adjusterassembly 920 and a second anchor and adjuster assembly (not shown). Thefirst anchor and adjuster assembly 920 may comprise a first anchor and afirst angle adjuster. The first anchor may be structurally configured toconnect to a first side wall 990. The second anchor and adjusterassembly may comprise a second anchor and a second angle adjuster. Thefirst angle adjuster and the second angle adjuster may each beconfigured to lock at a first angle. The second rack system 902 maycomprise a third anchor and adjuster assembly 922 and a fourth anchorand adjuster assembly (not shown). The third anchor and adjusterassembly 922 may comprise a third anchor and a third angle adjuster. Thethird anchor may be structurally configured to connect to the first sidewall 990. The fourth anchor and adjuster assembly may comprise a fourthanchor and a fourth angle adjuster. The third angle adjuster and thefourth angle adjuster may each be configured to lock at the first angle.The first angle may position a cross-member of the first rack system 901and a cross-member of the second rack system 902 higher than a cab ofthe pickup truck. The first rack system 901 and the second rack system902 may be configured to support a load that is longer than the lengthof a bed of the pickup truck. The first rack system 901 and the secondrack system 902 may be configured to secure, for example, at least onelong board and/or standup paddle board 980. The first rack system 901and the second rack system 902 may be configured to accept at least onerack accessory (970 and 972). The at least one rack accessory (970 and972) may comprise at least one clamp configured to secure the at leastone long board and/or standup paddle board 980.

FIG. 10 illustrates an example pair of rack systems 1000, mounted to apickup truck, as per an aspect of various embodiments. The pair of racksystems may comprise a first rack system 1001 and a second rack system1002. The first rack system 1001 may comprise a first anchor andadjuster assembly 1020 and a second anchor and adjuster assembly (notshown). The first anchor and adjuster assembly 1020 may comprise a firstanchor and a first angle adjuster. The first anchor may be structurallyconfigured to connect to a first side wall 1090. The second anchor andadjuster assembly may comprise a second anchor and a second angleadjuster. The first angle adjuster and the second angle adjuster mayeach be configured to lock at a third angle. The second rack system 1002may comprise a third anchor and adjuster assembly 1022 and a fourthanchor and adjuster assembly (not shown). The third anchor and adjusterassembly 1022 may comprise a third anchor and a third angle adjuster.The third anchor may be structurally configured to connect to the firstside wall 1090. The fourth anchor and adjuster assembly may comprise afourth anchor and a fourth angle adjuster. The third angle adjuster andthe fourth angle adjuster may each be configured to lock at the thirdangle. The third angle may position a cross-member of the first racksystem 1001 and a cross-member of the second rack system 1002 lower thana cab height of the pickup truck and higher than the first side wall1090. The first rack system 1001 and the second rack system 1002 may beconfigured to support a load that is shorter than the length of a bed ofthe pickup truck. The first rack system 1001 and the second rack system1002 may be configured to secure, for example, at least one surf board1080. The first rack system 1001 and the second rack system 1002 may beconfigured to accept at least one rack accessory (1070 and 1072). The atleast one rack accessory (1070 and 1072) may comprise at least one strapconfigured to secure the at least one surf board 1080.

FIG. 11 illustrates an example pair of rack systems 1100, mounted to apickup truck, as per an aspect of various embodiments. The pair of racksystems may comprise a first rack system 1101 and a second rack system1102. The first rack system 1101 may comprise a first anchor andadjuster assembly 1120 and a second anchor and adjuster assembly (notshown). The first anchor and adjuster assembly 1120 may comprise a firstanchor and a first angle adjuster. The first anchor may be structurallyconfigured to connect to a first side wall 1190. The second anchor andadjuster assembly may comprise a second anchor and a second angleadjuster. The first angle adjuster and the second angle adjuster mayeach be configured to lock at a third angle. The second rack system 1102may comprise a third anchor and adjuster assembly 1122 and a fourthanchor and adjuster assembly (not shown). The third anchor and adjusterassembly 1122 may comprise a third anchor and a third angle adjuster.The third anchor may be structurally configured to connect to the firstside wall 1190. The fourth anchor and adjuster assembly may comprise afourth anchor and a fourth angle adjuster. The third angle adjuster andthe fourth angle adjuster may each be configured to lock at the thirdangle. The third angle may position a cross-member of the first racksystem 1101 and a cross-member of the second rack system 1102 lower thana cab height of the pickup truck and higher than the first side wall1190. The first rack system 1101 and the second rack system 1102 may beconfigured to support a load that is shorter than the length of a bed ofthe pickup truck. The first rack system 1101 and the second rack system1102 may be configured to secure, for example, at least one pair of snowskis 1180. The first rack system 1101 and the second rack system 1102may be configured to accept at least one rack accessory (1170 and 1172).The at least one rack accessory (1170 and 1172) may comprise at leastone cradle configured to secure the at least one pair of snow skis 1180.

FIG. 12 illustrates an example pair of rack systems 1200, mounted to apickup truck, as per an aspect of various embodiments. The pair of racksystems may comprise a first rack system 1201 and a second rack system1202. The first rack system 1201 may comprise a first anchor andadjuster assembly 1220 and a second anchor and adjuster assembly (notshown). The first anchor and adjuster assembly 1220 may comprise a firstanchor and a first angle adjuster. The first anchor may be structurallyconfigured to connect to a first side wall 1290. The second anchor andadjuster assembly may comprise a second anchor and a second angleadjuster. The first angle adjuster and the second angle adjuster mayeach be configured to lock at a second angle. The second rack system1202 may comprise a third anchor and adjuster assembly 1222 and a fourthanchor and adjuster assembly (not shown). The third anchor and adjusterassembly 1222 may comprise a third anchor and a third angle adjuster.The third anchor may be structurally configured to connect to the firstside wall 1290. The fourth anchor and adjuster assembly may comprise afourth anchor and a fourth angle adjuster. The third angle adjuster andthe fourth angle adjuster may each be configured to lock at the secondangle. The second angle may position a cross-member of the first racksystem 1201 and a cross-member of the second rack system 1202 lower thanthe first side wall 1290. In this position, the first rack system 1201and the second rack system 1202 may be configured to support a load thatis shorter than the length of a bed of the pickup truck. In thisposition, the first rack system 1201 and the second rack system 1202 maybe configured to support a load that is longer than the length of a bedof the pickup truck when a tailgate of the pickup truck is in an openposition. In this position, an optional tonneau cover configured tocontact the top of the first side wall 1290 and the top of a second sidewall (not shown), may close over the first rack system 1201 and/or thesecond rack system 1202. The optional tonneau cover may be configured tocover at least a portion of the bed.

FIG. 13 illustrates an example pair of rack systems 1300, mounted to apickup truck, as per an aspect of various embodiments. The pair of racksystems may comprise a first rack system 1301 and a second rack system1302. The first rack system 1301 may comprise a first anchor andadjuster assembly 1320 and a second anchor and adjuster assembly (notshown). The first anchor and adjuster assembly 1320 may comprise a firstanchor and a first angle adjuster. The first anchor may be structurallyconfigured to connect to a first side wall 1390. The second anchor andadjuster assembly may comprise a second anchor and a second angleadjuster. The first angle adjuster and the second angle adjuster mayeach be configured to lock at a forth angle. The second rack system 1302may comprise a third anchor and adjuster assembly 1322 and a fourthanchor and adjuster assembly (not shown). The third anchor and adjusterassembly 1322 may comprise a third anchor and a third angle adjuster.The third anchor may be structurally configured to connect to the firstside wall 1390. The fourth anchor and adjuster assembly may comprise afourth anchor and a fourth angle adjuster. The third angle adjuster andthe fourth angle adjuster may each be configured to lock at the forthangle. The forth angle may position a cross-member of the first racksystem 1301 and a cross-member of the second rack system 1302 lower thana top of a first wheel well 1392. The forth angle may prevent across-member of the first rack system 1301 and a cross-member of thesecond rack system 1302 from contacting a floor of a bed of the pickuptruck. In this position, the first rack system 1301 and the second racksystem 1302 may be configured to support a load that is shorter than thelength of the bed. In this position, the first rack system 1301 and thesecond rack system 1302 may be configured to support a load that islonger than the length of a bed of the pickup truck when a tailgate ofthe pickup truck is in an open position. In this position, an optionaltonneau cover configured to contact the top of the first side wall 1390and the top of a second side wall (not shown), may close over the firstrack system 1301 and/or the second rack system 1302. The optionaltonneau cover may be configured to cover at least a portion of the bed.

FIG. 14 illustrates an example pair of rack systems 1400, mounted to apickup truck, as per an aspect of various embodiments. The pair of racksystems may comprise a first rack system 1401 and a second rack system1402. The first rack system 1401 may comprise a first anchor andadjuster assembly 1420 and a second anchor and adjuster assembly (notshown). The first anchor and adjuster assembly 1420 may comprise a firstanchor and a first angle adjuster. The first anchor may be structurallyconfigured to connect to a first side wall 1490. The second anchor andadjuster assembly may comprise a second anchor and a second angleadjuster. The first angle adjuster and the second angle adjuster mayeach be configured to lock at a fifth angle. The second rack system 1402may comprise a third anchor and adjuster assembly 1422 and a fourthanchor and adjuster assembly (not shown). The third anchor and adjusterassembly 1422 may comprise a third anchor and a third angle adjuster.The third anchor may be structurally configured to connect to the firstside wall 1490. The fourth anchor and adjuster assembly may comprise afourth anchor and a fourth angle adjuster. The third angle adjuster andthe fourth angle adjuster may each be configured to lock at the fifthangle. The fifth angle may position a cross-member of the first racksystem 1401 and a cross-member of the second rack system 1402 in contactwith a floor of a bed of the pickup truck. In this position, the firstrack system 1401 and the second rack system 1402 may be configured tosupport a load that is shorter than the length of the bed. In thisposition, the first rack system 1401 and the second rack system 1402 maybe configured to support a load that is longer than the length of a bedof the pickup truck when a tailgate of the pickup truck is in an openposition. In this position, an optional tonneau cover configured tocontact the top of the first side wall 1490 and the top of a second sidewall (not shown), may close over the first rack system 1401 and/or thesecond rack system 1402. The optional tonneau cover may be configured tocover at least a portion of the bed.

According to an embodiment, a first anchor may comprise a first suctioncup. A second anchor may comprise a second suction cup. The firstsuction cup may be structurally configured to attach to a first sidewall of, for example, a bed of a pickup truck. The second suction cupmay be structurally configured to attach to a second side wall.

According to an embodiment, a first anchor may comprise a first magnet.A second anchor may comprise a second magnet. The first magnet may bestructurally configured to attach to a first side wall of, for example,a bed of a pickup truck. The second magnet may be structurallyconfigured to attach to a second side wall.

According to an embodiment, a first anchor may be structurallyconfigured to be fastened to a first side wall of, for example, a bed ofa pickup truck. A second anchor may be structurally configured to befastened to a second side wall.

According to an embodiment, an angle adjuster may comprise at least onebearing support member. Each of the at least one bearing support membermay be structurally configured to support an inner race of at least onebearing. The angle adjuster may comprise an inner tube. The inner tubemay comprise a first outer surface. The inner tube may comprise a firstinner surface. The first inner surface may be structurally configured tobe at least partially supported by an outer race of the at least onebearing. The angle adjuster may comprise an outer tube. The outer tubemay comprise a second outer surface. The outer tube may comprise asecond inner surface. The second inner surface may be structurallyconfigured to be at least partially supported by the first outersurface. The angle adjuster may be structurally configured to adjust toa plurality of lengths. A rack system comprising the angle adjuster maytherefore be structurally configured to adjust to a plurality of pickuptruck bed widths.

According to an embodiment, a first angle adjuster and a second angleadjuster may each comprise a series of holes in an inner tube. The firstangle adjuster and the second angle adjuster may each comprise at leastone alignment hole in an outer tube. Alignment of the at least onealignment hole with a first of the series of holes may correspond to afirst angle. Alignment of the at least one alignment hole with a secondof the series of holes may correspond to a second angle. Alignment ofthe at least one alignment hole with a third of the series of holes maycorrespond to a third angle. Alignment of the at least one alignmenthole with a fourth of the series of holes may correspond to a fourthangle. Alignment of the at least one alignment hole with a fifth of theseries of holes may correspond to a fifth angle. Alignment of the atleast one alignment hole with a sixth of the series of holes maycorrespond to a sixth angle. The series of holes and the at least onealignment hole may be structurally configured to receive a hitch pin, acotter pin, at least one spring loaded pin, a quick disconnect pin,combinations thereof, and/or the like. The at least one spring loadedpin may collectively connect to an inner surface of the inner tube andan outer surface of the outer tube. The hitch pin, cotter pin, at leastone spring loaded pin, quick disconnect pin, combinations thereof,and/or the like may be employed as a locking mechanism.

According to an embodiment, a first angle adjuster and a second angleadjuster may each comprise a series of holes in an outer tube. The firstangle adjuster and the second angle adjuster may each comprise at leastone alignment hole in an inner tube. Alignment of the at least onealignment hole with a first of the series of holes may correspond to afirst angle. Alignment of the at least one alignment hole with a secondof the series of holes may correspond to a second angle. Alignment ofthe at least one alignment hole with a third of the series of holes maycorrespond to a third angle. Alignment of the at least one alignmenthole with a fourth of the series of holes may correspond to a fourthangle. Alignment of the at least one alignment hole with a fifth of theseries of holes may correspond to a fifth angle. Alignment of the atleast one alignment hole with a sixth of the series of holes maycorrespond to a sixth angle. The series of holes and the at least onealignment hole may be structurally configured to receive a hitch pin, acotter pin, at least one spring loaded pin, combinations thereof, and/orthe like. The at least one spring loaded pin may collectively connect toan outer surface of the outer tube and an inner surface of the innertube. The hitch pin, cotter pin, at least one spring loaded pin, quickdisconnect pin, combinations thereof, and/or the like may be employed asa locking mechanism.

FIG. 15A illustrates an example anchor and angle adjuster assembly 1500as per an aspect of various embodiments. The anchor and angle adjusterassembly 1500 may comprise an anchor 1510. The anchor 1510 may comprisea magnet. The anchor and angle adjuster assembly 1500 may comprise anangle adjuster. The angle adjuster may comprise an outer tube 1522. Theangle adjuster may comprise an inner tube 1524. The outer tube 1522 andinner tube 1524 may be constructed from a variety of materials includingplastic, metal, metal alloy, fiberglass, carbon fiber, combinationsthereof, and/or the like. The anchor and angle adjuster assembly 1500may comprise a quick disconnect pin 1512.

FIG. 15B illustrates an example anchor and angle adjuster assembly 1501as per an aspect of various embodiments. The anchor and angle adjusterassembly 1501 may comprise an anchor 1510. The anchor 1510 may comprisea magnet. The anchor and angle adjuster assembly 1501 may comprise anangle adjuster. The angle adjuster may comprise an outer tube 1522. Theangle adjuster may comprise an inner tube 1524. The outer tube 1522 andinner tube 1524 may be constructed from a variety of materials includingplastic, metal, metal alloy, fiberglass, carbon fiber, combinationsthereof, and/or the like. The anchor and angle adjuster assembly 1501may comprise a quick disconnect pin 1512.

FIG. 16A illustrates an example anchor and angle adjuster assembly 1600as per an aspect of various embodiments. The anchor and angle adjusterassembly 1600 may comprise an anchor housing 1611. The anchor housing1611 may be configured to house an anchor. The anchor and angle adjusterassembly 1600 may comprise an angle adjuster. The angle adjuster maycomprise an outer tube 1622. The outer tube 1622 may comprise at leastone alignment hole 1650. The angle adjuster may comprise an inner tube1624. For example, the inner tube 1624 may comprise an outer diameter of2.375 inches. For example, the inner tube 1624 may comprise an innerdiameter of 2.05 inches. The inner tube 1624 may comprise a series ofholes 1652. The dimensions disclosed in this example are meant to showrelation between the dimensions. Persons skilled in the art willrecognize that some or all of the dimensions may be changed to supportother tube dimensions and/or bearing dimensions.

FIG. 16B illustrates cross-sectional views of an example anchor andangle adjuster assembly 1601 as per an aspect of various embodiments.The anchor and angle adjuster assembly 1601 may comprise an anchorhousing 1611. For example, the anchor housing 1611 may comprise adiameter of 4.0 inches. For example, the anchor housing 1611 maycomprise a height of 0.925 inches. The anchor housing 1611 may beconfigured to house an anchor 1610. The anchor 1610 may comprise amagnet. For example, the magnet may comprise a magnet diameter of 3.545inches. For example, the magnet may comprise a magnet height of 0.705inches. The anchor and angle adjuster assembly 1601 may be configured toreceive an anchor fastener 1613. The anchor and angle adjuster assembly1601 may comprise an angle adjuster. The angle adjuster may comprise anouter tube 1622. For example, the outer tube 1622 may comprise an outerdiameter of 2.875 inches. For example, the outer tube 1622 may comprisean inner diameter of 2.445 inches. The angle adjuster may comprise abearing support member 1618. For example, the bearing support member1618 may comprise an outer diameter of 1.0 inches. The outer surface ofthe bearing support member 1618 may be configured to support the innerrace of at least one bearing (1626 and 1628). For example, the innerrace of at least one bearing (1626 and 1628) may comprise an innerdiameter of 1.0 inches. The outer race of the at least one bearing (1626and 1628) may be configured to support an inner surface of an inner tube(e.g. 1624). For example, the outer race of the at least one bearing(1626 and 1628) may comprise an outer diameter of 2.0 inches. The outersurface of the inner tube may be supported by an inner surface of theouter tube 1622. The dimensions disclosed in this example are meant toshow relation between the dimensions. Persons skilled in the art willrecognize that some or all of the dimensions may be changed to supportother tube dimensions and/or bearing dimensions.

FIG. 17A illustrates an example anchor and angle adjuster assembly 1700as per an aspect of various embodiments. The anchor and angle adjusterassembly 1700 may comprise an anchor housing 1711. The anchor and angleadjuster assembly 1700 may comprise an angle adjuster. The angleadjuster may comprise an outer tube 1722. The angle adjuster maycomprise at least one alignment hole 1750.

FIG. 17B illustrates an example anchor and angle adjuster assembly 1701as per an aspect of various embodiments. The anchor and angle adjusterassembly 1701 may comprise an anchor housing 1711. The anchor and angleadjuster assembly 1701 may comprise an angle adjuster. The angleadjuster may comprise an outer tube 1722. The angle adjuster maycomprise a bearing support member 1718.

FIG. 18A illustrates an example anchor and angle adjuster assembly 1800as per an aspect of various embodiments. The anchor and angle adjusterassembly 1800 may comprise an anchor housing 1811. The anchor housing1811 may be configured to house an anchor 1810. The anchor 1810 may beconfigured to be connected to a side wall of a bed of a pickup truck.The anchor and angle adjuster assembly 1800 may comprise an angleadjuster. The angle adjuster may comprise an outer tube 1822. The angleadjuster may comprise a bearing support member 1818. The bearing supportmember 1818 may be structurally configured to support an inner race of afirst bearing 1826. The bearing support member 1818 may be structurallyconfigured to support an inner race of a second bearing 1828.

FIG. 18B illustrates an example anchor and angle adjuster assembly 1801as per an aspect of various embodiments. The anchor and angle adjusterassembly 1801 may comprise an anchor housing 1811. The anchor housing1811 may comprise an anchor 1810. The anchor 1810 may be configured tobe connected to a side wall of a bed of a pickup truck. The anchor andangle adjuster assembly 1801 may comprise an angle adjuster. The angleadjuster may comprise an outer tube 1822.

According to an embodiment, a first angle adjuster and a second angleadjuster may each comprise an inner tube comprising external threads.The first angle adjuster and the second angle adjuster may each comprisean outer tube comprising internal threads. The outer tube may bestructurally configured to threadably receive the inner tube. Threads onthe second angle adjuster may be reversed from the threads on the firstangle adjuster.

FIG. 19A illustrates an example anchor 1900 as per an aspect of anembodiment. The anchor 1900 may comprise a compression plate 1960. Thecompression plate 1960 may be U-shaped. The anchor 1900 may comprise aplurality of threaded fittings 1962. Each of the plurality of threadedfittings 1962 may comprise a threaded nut connected to the compressionplate 1960. Each of the plurality of threaded fittings 1962 may comprisea threaded hole in the compression plate 1960. Each of the plurality ofthreaded fittings 1962 may be configured to receive a threaded bolt. Theanchor 1900 may comprise an angle adjuster base plate 1964 connected tothe compression plate 1960. The angle adjuster base plate 1964 maycomprise a hole 1966. The hole 1966 may be threaded. The hole 1966 maybe configured to receive a fastener. The fastener may be employed toconnect an angle adjuster to the angle adjuster base plate 1964.

FIG. 19B illustrates a cross-sectional view of an interior lip of a sidewall 1990 of a pickup-truck with an example anchor and angle adjusterassembly as per an aspect of an embodiment. The anchor and angleadjuster assembly may comprise an anchor. The anchor may comprise acompression plate 1960. The anchor may comprise at least one threadedfitting 1962. Each of the at least one threaded fitting 1962 may beconfigured to receive a threaded bolt 1968. The threaded bolt 1968 andthe compression plate 1960 may be employed to apply pressure to theinterior lip of the side wall 1990. The anchor may comprise an angleadjuster base plate 1964 connected to the compression plate 1960. Theangle adjuster base plate 1964 may be sized to support an exterior (asshown) or interior surface of an anchor housing 1911. The anchor housing1911 may be connected to an outer tube 1922 of an angle adjuster.

According to an embodiment, a rack system may comprise at least onecross-member clamp. Each of the at least one cross-member clamp may bestructurally configured to clamp to a cross-member. Each of the at leastone cross-member clamp may be structurally configured to clamp to asupport member. Each of the at least one cross-member clamp may bestructurally configured to provide an attachment point for at least onerack accessory. Each of the at least one cross-member clamp may compriseat least one pin extending inward from an inner diameter of thecross-member clamp. The cross-member may comprise at least one hole eachstructurally configured to receive one of the at least one pin. Thecross-member may comprise a series of holes each structurally configuredto receive one of the at least one pin. Each of the series of holes maycorrespond to one of a series of holes in at least one angle adjuster.The cross-member may comprise a plurality of series of holes, eachseries of holes in the plurality of series of holes located in adistinct location along the cross-member to accommodate one or moreloads. Each series of holes may be located in a distinct location alongthe cross-member to accommodate a plurality of load widths. The supportmember may comprise at least one hole each structurally configured toreceive one of the at least one pin.

FIG. 20 illustrates an example cross-member clamp 2000 as per an aspectof various embodiments. The cross-member clamp 2000 may comprise a firstpin 2001. The cross-member clamp 2000 may comprise a second pin 2002.The first pin 2001 and the second pin 2002 may extend inward from aninner diameter of the cross-member clamp.

FIGS. 21A and 21B illustrate existing clamps 2100 known in the art thatmay be employed to clamp to a cross-member to secure a load. Forexample, a load may be secured by connecting a strap to at least one ofthe clamps 2100. For example, a load may be secured by connecting a rackaccessory to at least one of the clamps 2100.

FIGS. 22A and 22B illustrate existing clamps 2200 known in the art thatmay be employed to clamp to a cross-member to secure a load. Forexample, a load may be secured by connecting a strap to at least one ofthe clamps 2200. For example, a load may be secured by connecting a rackaccessory to at least one of the clamps 2200.

FIG. 23A illustrates a portion of an example rack system 2300, mountedto a pickup truck, with an example clamp 2384 as per an aspect ofvarious embodiments. The rack system may comprise a support member 2331.The rack system may comprise an anchor and adjuster assembly 2321. Therack system may comprise a cross-member 2340. The clamp 2384 may besecured to the cross-member 2340 (as shown). The clamp 2384 may besecured to the support member 2331. The clamp 2384 may be employed tosecure a load.

FIG. 23B illustrates a portion of an example rack system 2301, mountedto a pickup truck, with an example clamp 2384 as per an aspect ofvarious embodiments. The rack system may comprise a support member 2331.The rack system may comprise a cross-member 2340. The clamp 2384 may besecured to the cross-member 2340 (as shown). The clamp 2384 may besecured to the support member 2331. A hook 2386 may be secured to theclamp 2384. The hook 2386 may be employed to secure a load such as, forexample, a bicycle.

FIG. 24 illustrates a portion of an example rack system 2400, mounted toa pickup truck, at a first angle as per an aspect of an embodiment. Therack system may comprise a support member 2431. The rack system maycomprise an anchor and adjuster assembly 2421. The anchor and adjusterassembly 2421 may comprise an anchor and an angle adjuster. The anchormay be structurally configured to connect to a side wall 2491. The angleadjuster may comprise a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism may bestructurally configured to lock at a first angle (as shown).

FIG. 25 illustrates a portion of an example rack system 2500, mounted toa pickup truck, at a first angle as per an aspect of an embodiment. Therack system may comprise a support member 2531. The rack system maycomprise an anchor and adjuster assembly 2521. The anchor and adjusterassembly 2521 may comprise an anchor and an angle adjuster. The anchormay be structurally configured to connect to a side wall 2591. The angleadjuster may comprise a locking mechanism 2512. The locking mechanism2512 may be structurally configured to lock at a first angle (as shown).

FIG. 26 illustrates a portion of an example rack system 2600, mounted toa pickup truck, at a third angle as per an aspect of an embodiment. Therack system may comprise a support member 2631. The rack system maycomprise an anchor and adjuster assembly 2621. The anchor and adjusterassembly 2621 may comprise an anchor and an angle adjuster. The anchormay be structurally configured to connect to a side wall 2691. The angleadjuster may comprise a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism may bestructurally configured to lock at a third angle (as shown).

FIG. 27 illustrates a portion of an example rack system 2700, mounted toa pickup truck, at a third angle as per an aspect of an embodiment. Therack system may comprise a support member 2731. The rack system maycomprise an anchor and adjuster assembly 2721. The anchor and adjusterassembly 2721 may comprise an anchor and an angle adjuster. The anchormay be structurally configured to connect to a side wall 2791. The angleadjuster may comprise a locking mechanism 2712. The locking mechanism2712 may be structurally configured to lock at a third angle (as shown).

FIG. 28 illustrates a portion of an example rack system 2800, mounted toa pickup truck, at a second angle as per an aspect of an embodiment. Therack system may comprise a support member 2831. The rack system maycomprise an anchor and adjuster assembly 2821. The anchor and adjusterassembly 2821 may comprise an anchor and an angle adjuster. The anchormay be structurally configured to connect to a side wall 2891. The angleadjuster may comprise a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism may bestructurally configured to lock at a second angle (as shown).

FIG. 29 illustrates a portion of an example rack system 2900, mounted toa pickup truck, at a second angle as per an aspect of an embodiment. Therack system may comprise a support member 2931. The rack system maycomprise an anchor and adjuster assembly 2921. The anchor and adjusterassembly 2921 may comprise an anchor and an angle adjuster. The anchormay be structurally configured to connect to a side wall 2991. The angleadjuster may comprise a locking mechanism 2912. The locking mechanism2912 may be structurally configured to lock at a second angle (asshown).

FIG. 30 illustrates a portion of an example rack system 3000, mounted toa pickup truck, at a fourth angle as per an aspect of an embodiment. Therack system may comprise a support member 3031. The rack system maycomprise an anchor and adjuster assembly 3021. The anchor and adjusterassembly 3021 may comprise an anchor and an angle adjuster. The anchormay be structurally configured to connect to a side wall 3091. The angleadjuster may comprise a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism may bestructurally configured to lock at a fourth angle (as shown).

FIG. 31 illustrates a portion of an example rack system 3100, mounted toa pickup truck, at a fourth angle as per an aspect of an embodiment. Therack system may comprise a support member 3131. The rack system maycomprise an anchor and adjuster assembly 3121. The anchor and adjusterassembly 3121 may comprise an anchor and an angle adjuster. The anchormay be structurally configured to connect to a side wall 3191. The angleadjuster may comprise a locking mechanism 3112. The locking mechanism3112 may be structurally configured to lock at a fourth angle (asshown).

FIG. 32 illustrates an example pair of rack systems 3200, mounted to apickup truck, at a fifth angle as per an aspect of an embodiment. Afirst rack system in the pair of rack systems may comprise a firstanchor and adjuster assembly 3220. The first anchor and adjusterassembly 3220 may comprise a first anchor and a first angle adjuster.The first anchor may be structurally configured to connect to a firstside wall 3290. The first angle adjuster may comprise a first lockingmechanism. The first locking mechanism may be structurally configured tolock at a fifth angle (as shown). The first rack system may comprise asecond anchor and adjuster assembly 3221. The second anchor and adjusterassembly 3221 may comprise a second anchor and a second angle adjuster.The second anchor may be structurally configured to connect to a secondside wall 3291. The second angle adjuster may comprise a second lockingmechanism. The second locking mechanism may be structurally configuredto lock at the fifth angle (as shown). The first rack system maycomprise a first support member 3230 and a second support member 3231.The first rack system may comprise a first cross-member 3240. The firstcross-member 3240 may be in contact with a floor 3295. A second racksystem in the pair of rack systems may comprise a third anchor andadjuster assembly 3222. The third anchor and adjuster assembly 3222 maycomprise a third anchor and a third angle adjuster. The third anchor maybe structurally configured to connect to the first side wall 3290. Thethird angle adjuster may comprise a third locking mechanism. The thirdlocking mechanism may be structurally configured to lock at the fifthangle (as shown). The second rack system may comprise a fourth anchorand adjuster assembly 3223. The fourth anchor and adjuster assembly 3223may comprise a fourth anchor and a fourth angle adjuster. The fourthanchor may be structurally configured to connect to the second side wall3291. The fourth angle adjuster may comprise a fourth locking mechanism.The fourth locking mechanism may be structurally configured to lock atthe fifth angle (as shown). The second rack system may comprise a thirdsupport member 3232 and a forth support member 3233. The second racksystem may comprise a second cross-member 3242. The second cross-member3242 may be in contact with the floor 3295.

FIG. 33 illustrates an example rack system 3300, partially mounted to apickup truck, with a cross-member adjusted to a first length as per anaspect of an embodiment. The rack system may comprise a first anchor andadjuster assembly 3320. The rack system may comprise a second anchor andadjuster assembly 3321. The rack system may comprise a first supportmember 3330 and a second support member 3331. The first support member3330 may be connected to a first inner tube of a first angle adjuster ofthe first anchor and adjuster assembly 3320. The second support member3331 may be connected to a second inner tube of a second angle adjusterof the second anchor and adjuster assembly 3321. The rack system maycomprise a cross-member. The cross-member may comprise a first tube3340A, a second tube 3340B, and a third tube 3340C. In this example, thethird tube 3340C comprises an inner tube. The first tube 3340A and thesecond tube 3340B may each comprise an outer tube. The first tube 3340Amay be fixed in relation to the first support member 3330. The secondtube 3340B may be fixed in relation to the second support member 3331.The third tube 3340C may be structurally configured to slide withrespect to the first tube 3340A and/or the second tube 3340B. Thisallows the rack system to be adjusted to the width of a bed of thepickup truck.

FIG. 34 illustrates an example rack system 3400, partially mounted to apickup truck, with a cross-member adjusted to a second length as per anaspect of an embodiment. The rack system may comprise a first anchor andadjuster assembly 3420. The rack system may comprise a second anchor andadjuster assembly 3421. The rack system may comprise a first supportmember 3430 and a second support member 3431. The first support member3430 may be connected to a first inner tube of a first angle adjuster ofthe first anchor and adjuster assembly 3420. The second support member3431 may be connected to a second inner tube of a second angle adjusterof the second anchor and adjuster assembly 3421. The rack system maycomprise a cross-member. The cross-member may comprise a first tube3440A, a second tube 3440B, and a third tube 3440C. In this example, thethird tube 3440C comprises an inner tube. The first tube 3440A and thesecond tube 3440B may each comprise an outer tube. The first tube 3440Amay be fixed in relation to the first support member 3430. The secondtube 3440B may be fixed in relation to the second support member 3431.The third tube 3440C may be structurally configured to slide withrespect to the first tube 3440A and/or the second tube 3440B. Thisallows the rack system to be adjusted to the width of a bed of thepickup truck.

FIG. 35 illustrates an example rack system 3500, partially mounted to apickup truck, with a cross-member adjusted to a third length as per anaspect of an embodiment. The rack system may comprise a first anchor andadjuster assembly 3520. The rack system may comprise a second anchor andadjuster assembly 3521. The rack system may comprise a first supportmember 3530 and a second support member 3531. The rack system maycomprise a cross-member. The cross-member may comprise a first tube3540A, a second tube 3540B, and a third tube 3540C. In this example, thethird tube 3540C comprises an inner tube. The first tube 3540A and thesecond tube 3540B may each comprise an outer tube. The first tube 3540Amay be fixed in relation to the first support member 3530. The secondtube 3540B may be fixed in relation to the second support member 3531.The third tube 3540C may be structurally configured to slide withrespect to the first tube 3540A and/or the second tube 3540B. Thisallows the rack system to be adjusted to the width of a bed of thepickup truck. The third tube 3540C may comprise a series of holes. Thefirst tube 3540A and/or the second tube 3540B may comprise at least onealignment hole. Alignment of the at least one alignment hole with afirst of the series of holes may correspond to a first length. Alignmentof the at least one alignment hole with a second of the series of holesmay correspond to a second length, and so on. The series of holes andthe at least one alignment hole may be structurally configured toreceive a hitch pin, a cotter pin, at least one spring loaded pin, aquick disconnect pin, combinations thereof, and/or the like to lock thecross-member length. The cross-member length may be locked once thefirst support member 3530 is locked to a first angle adjuster includedin the first anchor and adjuster assembly 3520 and the second supportmember 3531 is locked to a second angle adjuster included in the secondanchor and adjuster assembly 3521.

Although the subject matter has been described in language specific tostructural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understoodthat the subject matter defined in the appended claims is notnecessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above.Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed asexample forms of implementing the claims.

In this specification, “a” and “an” and similar phrases are to beinterpreted as “at least one” and “one or more.” References to “a”,“an”, and “one” are not to be interpreted as “only one”. In thisspecification, the term “may” is to be interpreted as “may, forexample.” In other words, the term “may” is indicative that the phrasefollowing the term “may” is an example of one of a multitude of suitablepossibilities that may, or may not, be employed to one or more of thevarious embodiments. In this specification, the phrase “based on” isindicative that the phrase following the term “based on” is an exampleof one of a multitude of suitable possibilities that may, or may not, beemployed to one or more of the various embodiments. References to “an”embodiment in this disclosure are not necessarily to the sameembodiment.

While various embodiments have been described above, it should beunderstood that they have been presented by way of example, and notlimitation. It will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevantart(s) that various changes in form and detail can be made thereinwithout departing from the spirit and scope. In fact, after reading theabove description, it will be apparent to one skilled in the relevantart(s) how to implement alternative embodiments. Thus, the presentembodiments should not be limited by any of the above describedexemplary embodiments.

In this specification, various embodiments are disclosed. Limitations,features, and/or elements from the disclosed example embodiments may becombined to create further embodiments within the scope of thedisclosure.

In addition, it should be understood that any figures that highlight anyfunctionality and/or advantages, are presented for example purposesonly. The disclosed architecture is sufficiently flexible andconfigurable, such that it may be utilized in ways other than thatshown.

Furthermore, many features presented above are described as beingoptional through the use of “may” or the use of parentheses. For thesake of brevity and legibility, the present disclosure does notexplicitly recite each and every permutation that may be obtained bychoosing from the set of optional features. However, the presentdisclosure is to be interpreted as explicitly disclosing all suchpermutations. For example, a system described as having three optionalfeatures may be embodied in seven different ways, namely with just oneof the three possible features, with any two of the three possiblefeatures or with all three of the three possible features.

Further, the purpose of the Abstract of the Disclosure is to enable theU.S. Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally, andespecially the scientists, engineers and practitioners in the art whoare not familiar with patent or legal terms or phraseology, to determinequickly from a cursory inspection the nature and essence of thetechnical disclosure of the application. The Abstract of the Disclosureis not intended to be limiting as to the scope in any way.

Finally, it is the applicant's intent that only claims that include theexpress language “means for” or “step for” be interpreted under 35U.S.C. 112. Claims that do not expressly include the phrase “means for”or “step for” are not to be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112.

What is claimed is:
 1. A rack system comprising: a) a first anchorstructurally configured to connect to a first side wall of a bed of avehicle; b) a second anchor structurally configured to connect to asecond side wall of the bed; c) a first angle adjuster: i) rotatablyconnected to the first anchor; and ii) comprising a first lockingmechanism structurally configured to lock at: A) a first angle; and B) asecond angle; d) a second angle adjuster: i) rotatably connected to thesecond anchor; and ii) comprising a second locking mechanismstructurally configured to lock at: A) the first angle; and B) thesecond angle; e) a first support member connected to the first angleadjuster; f) a second support member connected to the second angleadjuster; and g) a cross-member connected between the first supportmember and the second support member; and wherein the first angleadjuster and the second angle adjuster each comprising: i) an inner tubehaving a series of holes; and ii) an outer tube having at least onealignment hole, wherein alignment of the at least one alignment holewith a first of the series of holes corresponds to the first angle, andwherein alignment of the at least one alignment hole with a second ofthe series of holes corresponds to the second angle.
 2. The systemaccording to claim 1, wherein the first anchor comprises a first magnetand the second anchor comprises a second magnet, the first magnet andthe second magnet each structurally configured to attach to one of: thefirst side wall and the second side wall.
 3. The system according toclaim 1, wherein the first anchor comprises a first compression plateand the second anchor comprises a second compression plate, the firstcompression plate and the second compression plate each structurallyconfigured to attach to one of: the first side wall and the second sidewall.
 4. The system according to claim 1, wherein the series of holesand the at least one alignment hole are structurally configured toreceive at least one of the following: a) a hitch pin; b) a cotter pin;or c) at least one spring loaded pin collectively connected to one ofthe following: i) the inner tube; or ii) the outer tube.
 5. The systemaccording to claim 1, wherein the first support member and the secondsupport member are each structurally configured to adjust to a pluralityof lengths.
 6. The system according to claim 1, wherein the cross-memberis structurally configured to adjust to a plurality of lengths.
 7. Thesystem according to claim 1, wherein the first locking mechanism and thesecond locking mechanism are each structurally configured to lock at athird angle.
 8. The system according to claim 1, wherein the firstlocking mechanism and the second locking mechanism are each structurallyconfigured to lock at a fourth angle.
 9. The system according to claim1, wherein the first locking mechanism and the second locking mechanismare each structurally configured to lock at a fifth angle.
 10. Thesystem according to claim 1, further comprising at least onecross-member clamp each structurally configured to: a) clamp to thecross-member; and b) provide an attachment point for at least one rackaccessory.
 11. A rack system comprising: a) a first anchor structurallyconfigured to connect to a first side wall of a bed of a vehicle; b) asecond anchor structurally configured to connect to a second side wallof the bed; c) a first angle adjuster: i) rotatably connected to thefirst anchor; and ii) comprising a first locking mechanism structurallyconfigured to lock at: A) a first angle; and B) a second angle; d) asecond angle adjuster: i) rotatably connected to the second anchor; andii) comprising a second locking mechanism structurally configured tolock at: A) the first angle; and B) the second angle; e) a first supportmember connected to the first angle adjuster; f) a second support memberconnected to the second angle adjuster; and g) a cross-member connectedbetween the first support member and the second support member; andwherein the first angle adjuster and the second angle adjuster eachcomprising: i) an outer tube having a series of holes; and ii) an innertube having at least one alignment hole, wherein alignment of the atleast one alignment hole with a first of the series of holes correspondsto the first angle, and wherein alignment of the at least one alignmenthole with a second of the series of holes corresponds to the secondangle.
 12. The system according to claim 11, wherein the first anchorcomprises a first magnet and the second anchor comprises a secondmagnet, the first magnet and the second magnet each structurallyconfigured to attach to one of: the first side wall and the second sidewall.
 13. The system according to claim 11, wherein the first anchorcomprises a first compression plate and the second anchor comprises asecond compression plate, the first compression plate and the secondcompression plate each structurally configured to attach to one of: thefirst side wall and the second side wall.
 14. The system according toclaim 11, wherein the series of holes and the at least one alignmenthole are structurally configured to receive at least one of thefollowing: a) a hitch pin; b) a cotter pin; or c) at least one springloaded pin collectively connected to one of the following: i) the innertube; or ii) the outer tube.
 15. The system according to claim 11,wherein the first support member and the second support member are eachstructurally configured to adjust to a plurality of lengths.
 16. Thesystem according to claim 11, wherein the cross-member is structurallyconfigured to adjust to a plurality of lengths.
 17. The system accordingto claim 11, wherein the first locking mechanism and the second lockingmechanism are each structurally configured to lock at a third angle. 18.The system according to claim 11, wherein the first locking mechanismand the second locking mechanism are each structurally configured tolock at a fourth angle.
 19. The system according to claim 11, whereinthe first locking mechanism and the second locking mechanism are eachstructurally configured to lock at a fifth angle.
 20. The systemaccording to claim 11, further comprising at least one cross-memberclamp each structurally configured to: a) clamp to the cross-member; andb) provide an attachment point for at least one rack accessory.